STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.— Katelyn Kliesch, a senior at Notre Dame Academy and the first athlete ever to win four individual Island cross country championships, has announced her commitment to attend Villanova University— home to a powerhouse program with 15 Big East cross country titles and nine NCAA track team championships.
Kliesch had plenty of options for continuing her athletic career in college, but she said she knew early on that Villanova was the right fit for her.
“They were my top choice because I loved the school beyond running. When I visited, I connected with the coaches right away, and I knew then that it was where I wanted to go. There were other schools, but if Villanova was an option, that’s where I was going,” the soon-to-be Wildcat said.
Along with praising the team’s welcoming environment, Kliesch said that even though the suburbs of Philadelphia aren’t far from home, the campus immediately felt like where she belonged.
“Walking around the school, it was really homey, and I could just see myself there,” she said.
Looking ahead, Kliesch said that securing a spot on an NCAA team should give her an extra boost heading into the indoor track season. She’s hopeful it will help her lower her Island records in the 800 meters, 1,000 meters, 1,500 meters, and the mile, further cementing her legacy as one of the Island’s best-ever runners.
“It’s definitely more motivating because I want to show what I can do and carry that momentum into next year. Seeing how well the girls are doing in college makes me want to prove I can be part of that too,” she shared.
The Gator standout also made sure to thank her support system of family, friends, and teammates for their guidance and encouragement, saying she wouldn’t have gotten this far without them.
“They’ve all been important in helping me through the days when I’m not mentally there or just not feeling my best, giving me that extra push. Showing up every day isn’t easy,” she said.
Reflecting on the close-knit environment at NDA, Kliesch emphasized the importance of camaraderie and team spirit.
“I’d say it’s really about the team and the girls. We’re all close, and being friends and having fun takes away the pressure. That support has helped me get through year after year, week after week,” she concluded.
Notre Dame’s head coach, James Walker, also highlighted why the Big East school is an ideal destination for his record-setting athlete, saying, “Villanova isn’t just the next step for her; it’s a perfect fit. It’ll be a great home for her next chapter where her drive, toughness and passion will continue to rise.”
He also praised Kliesch’s contributions to the NDA program, saying, “Watching Katelyn grow into the athlete and person she is today has been one of the greatest honors of my coaching career. I couldn’t be prouder of the athlete and the young woman she’s become.”
With her NCAA future now cemented, Kliesch will aim to close out her time at NDA on a high note, beginning at Ocean Breeze at the Loughlin Games for the indoor season opener on Dec. 20.